Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent)
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116. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if the passport service utilises facial recognition technology; the safeguards that are in place to prevent abuse of this technology; the costs paid to providers for the operation and maintenance of this technology since it was first utilised by the Passport Office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53332/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The Passport Service introduced facial recognition technology in 2016. This facilitated the introduction of the Passport Online service, which has been transformative for Irish citizens and has resulted in considerable efficiencies for the Passport Service.

Facial recognition technology is an anti-fraud measure and adds significantly to the integrity of the Irish passport. The use of facial recognition technology combats identity theft and fraud and helps to maintain the international reputation of the Irish passport. Our passport is currently ranked 4th in the world in the Henley International Passport Index as it offers our citizens visa-free access to 190 countries.

The Facial recognition technology used by the Passport Service is contained in a closed, highly protected software system. It is used by highly trained and experienced staff and appropriate restrictions in place at various levels to designated officers.

The Department has paid €3.4 million to the providers of the facial recognition technology used by the Passport Service since 2015.

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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118. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade when passports will issue to siblings from County Galway (details supplied); the reason for the delay in issuing the passports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53364/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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With regard to the specific applications about which the Deputy has enquired, the Passport Service has issued passports to the applicants.